Monday, August 29, 2011

Road closure and Travel ban in Pittsgrove

For Immediate Press Release

Monday, August 29, 2011
(as of 3:30pm)

Pittsgrove Township still in “State of Emergency” and “Travel Ban”


Pittsgrove Township – The Office of Emergency Management is continuing the State of Emergency with the Travel Ban in Pittsgrove Township until further notice.
Damage assessment has been ongoing throughout the day with the following roads being deemed to be impassable and therefore are banned from traffic.

The roads affected until further notice are:

Olivet Road from Dealtown Road to Greenville Road
Husted Station Road from Greenville Road to Palatine Road
Greenville from Griers Lane to Olivet Road
Burlington Road between Eft and SandBridge
Centerton Road from Dutch Row Road to Elmer Borough
Jesse Bridge Road from Garden to Parvin Mill Road
South Gershal Ave from Landis to Sherman Avenue
Landis Ave from Gershal Road to Alvine Road
Central Avenue from Canhouse Road to Alvine Road
Willow Grove Road from Parvin Mill Road to Cumberland County line

We will be advising residents when the emergency is lifted and what roads deemed useable. Please continue to safely abide by the road closures and other hazards on the roadways.




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Road Closures and Updated Press Release

CLICK HERE FOR PRESS RELEASE

Willow Grove update

There is no breach in progress. Both Willow Grove and Iona are being stabalized.


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Willow Grove Lake

Please be advised that Willow Grove Lake rd at Pittsgrove Township is and remains closed.


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Willow Grove Dam

Due to a breach in Iona Lake in Gloucester County, Willow Grove Dam has a partial breach. More water is expected from Gloucester County which will worsen the situation. Residents downstream of the lake, and in low lying areas, should continually monitor conditions in their area, especially those along the Maurice River.

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Live Blogging Now Discontinued

Live blogging has now been discontinued for this event. Residents can go to: www.nj.com/south for regular updates from local news outlets. Please be safe.

County Road Closures with Some Township Roads

County Road Closures
Salem-Hancocks Bridge Road are of Brown Derby - Wires
East Lake Road - Bridge Washed Out
Eldridges Hill Road - Bridge Washed Out IAO Lincoln Road
Cemetery Road - IAO 911 - Bridge Washed Out
Pecks Corner Harmersville - Tree w/ wires
Centerton Rd @ Lake @ Golf Course 
S. Main Street Woodstown - IAO Pool - Road Washed Out
Compromise Rd Mannington - Flooded
S. Main St Elmer - Flooded at Lake
County Home Road - Flooded
Pointers Auburn - Road Washed Out
Kings Highway @ Rt. 40 Pilesgrove - Flooded
540 Mannington Meadows Causeway - Flooded (state road)
Monroeville Rd @ Countyline (Temporary)
Daretown Aldine at Camp Grice (Temporary)
Lighthouse Road - 1 Lane (Temporary)

County Wide Travel Restriction Lifted as of 9:30 AM

A State of Emergency still exists in Salem County. The County travel restriction is lifted as of 9:30 AM; however, residents are advised to stay off roadways unless travel is absolutely necessary. There are flooded roadways throughout the County and public works crews are at work addressing the needs.

More Road Closures

Elmer- South Main Street and County Road 611
Pittsgrove- Almond Road in the area of Centerton Golf Club
Mannington- Haines Neck Road between Kings Highway and Biddle Road
Mannington- Bassett Road between Kings Highway and Route 45 soon to be affected by cresting Salem River
Mannington-Pointers-Auborn Road- impassible between Black & Courses Landing Road in the area of the Salem River

Pointers Auburn Road

CR 646- The bridge is closed from Penns Grove- Auburn Rd to Woodstown-PedrickTown Rd

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Cemetery Road

Cemetery Road (Pilesgrove) @ Public Works is closed.

Route 40 and Salem County Roads

We have had numerous cars get stranded at Route 40 bridge east of Kings Highway (by Richmans) in Woodstown. This portion of the road is closed. We have had several rescue operations take place in this section because motorists have become stranded. As a reminder, there is a travel ban throughout Salem County- only essential vehicles should be on the roadways.

East Lake Road Bridge

East Lake Road Bridge in Pilesgrove is impassable and closed.

Road closure

Eldridges Hill- between Lincoln Rd and Whig Ln.


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Elsinboro Update

Most of Elsinboro with out power   Water is coming over the seawall in a lot of areas. A lot of flooding  Many roads impassable.

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Penns Grove Area

Local OEM reports that 3/4 of the roads have water in them or are impassable.

Woodstown Bridge

The Chestnut Run Bridge on South Main Street is now damaged and impassable in Woodstown.

Avis Mill Pond

The dam structure itself did not fail, but there is damage in the area of Foxes Mill.

Route 40 in Woodstown

A section of Route 40 in front of Heritage's in Woodstown has been washed out.

Route 40

Reopened at Elmer Lake

Route 40 in Elmer

Route 40 impassable in Elmer.

Salem Hancocks Bridge Road Closed

Salem Hancocks Bridge Road Closed at Hagersivlle Road

Salem County Imposes Travel Ban

Salem County's State of Emergency Declaration is being amended to include a travel ban in Salem County. Effective immediately, only essential personnel should be on the roadways.

Tornado WARNING in Parts of Salem County

Tornado warning for western Salem County. Seek shelter immediately.

If a Warning is issued or if threatening weather approaches:

  • In a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement.
  • If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture.
  • Stay away from windows.
  • Get out of automobiles.
  • Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave it immediately.
  • Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned.

Route 40 Closure

Route 40 bridge east of Kings Highway will be closed within the next 4 hours due to flooding.

Salem County EOC back up

Electric is back up and communications have been restored at the Salem County Emergency Operations Center. The center never lost 911 and radio communications.

Stay Off Roadways

Conditions are worsening...residents are advised to stay off roadways and prepare for power failure.


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Emergency Management Communications Limited

Due to power failure- communications are limited at Emergency Management and 911 center.


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Electric Services

There are multiple power outages throughout the County, including the Office of Emergency Services Ops Center. Due to deteriorating weather conditions, Atlantic City Electric will not be dispatching road crews to fix outages until conditions improve.


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Utilities Now Unable to Respond to Power Outages

Due to deteriorating weather conditions, we have been advised that Atlantic City Electric will not be dispatching road crews until weather conditions improve. You can still report an outage by calling 1-800-833-7476.

What to do during a flood?

During a Flood
If a flood is likely in your area, you should:
  • Listen to the radio or television for information.
  • Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
  • Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain.
If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following:
  • Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.
  • Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips:
  • Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
  • Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away.

Driving Flood Facts

The following are important points to remember when driving in flood conditions:
  • Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.
  • A foot of water will float many vehicles.
  • Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV’s) and pick-ups.

Power Outages

Atlantic City Electric said Saturday it continued to request mutual assistance from its utility partners.

The company says safety is paramount. Customers should evacuate their homes if directed. If customers see downed wires, stay clear and report them to 1-800-833-7476. Downed wires and standing water can be a fatal combination.

As soon as safely possible, damage assessors will be surveying the storm's impact. The company will issue an estimated restoration time for bringing power back up to all customers. These estimates will be refined as restoration work progresses.

If your power goes out, call 1-800-833-7476 and take advantage of the automated reporting system. Do not assume your neighbor has called. Always request a callback to verify your power has been restored.

Salem County Shelters Open

Salem County has two emergency shelters open:

Salem Community College
460 Hollywood Ave
Penns Grove, NJ

Schalick High School
718 Centerton Road
Elmer, NJ

Residents who need assistance to get to the shelter should contact their local emergency management officials.

Salem County Emergency Operations Center Active

As of 6:00 PM, the Salem County Emergency Operations Center was activated. Currently there are two shelters operating in Salem County. One shelter is at the Salem Community College in Carneys Point and the other shelter is at Schalick High School.

Tornado Safety from FEMA

What to do Before a Tornado

Be alert to changing weather conditions.
  • Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information.
  • Look for approaching storms
  • Look for the following danger signs:
    • Dark, often greenish sky
    • Large hail
    • A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating)
    • Loud roar, similar to a freight train.
If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.

What to Do During a Tornado

If you are under a tornado WARNING, seek shelter immediately!
If you are in: Then:
A structure (e.g. residence, small building, school, nursing home, hospital, factory, shopping center, high-rise building) Go to a pre-designated shelter area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest building level. If there is no basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Do not open windows.
A vehicle, trailer, or mobile home Get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy, nearby building or a storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes.
The outside with no shelter Lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Be aware of the potential for flooding.

Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.

Never try to outrun a tornado in urban or congested areas in a car or truck. Instead, leave the vehicle immediately for safe shelter.

Watch out for flying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries.

Tornado Watch In Effect

Issued by The National Weather Service
Philadelphia, PA
10:42 am EDT, Sat., Aug. 27, 2011
THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HAS ISSUED TORNADO WATCH 811 IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS
IN DELAWARE THIS WATCH INCLUDES 3 COUNTIES
IN CENTRAL DELAWARE
KENT
IN NORTHERN DELAWARE
NEW CASTLE
IN SOUTHERN DELAWARE
SUSSEX
IN MARYLAND THIS WATCH INCLUDES 4 COUNTIES
IN NORTHEAST MARYLAND
CAROLINE KENT QUEEN ANNE'S TALBOT
IN NEW JERSEY THIS WATCH INCLUDES 4 COUNTIES
IN SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY
ATLANTIC CAPE MAY CUMBERLAND SALEM
THIS INCLUDES THE CITIES OF... ATLANTIC CITY... CENTREVILLE... CHESTERTOWN... DENTON... DOVER... EASTON... GEORGETOWN... HAMMONTON... MILLVILLE... OCEAN CITY... PENNSVILLE AND WILMINGTON.

No mandatory evacuations as of 10:30

There are no mandatory evacuations in Salem County as of 10:30 AM. Residents in low-lying or flood prone areas to voluntarily evacuate by early afternoon Saturday. Residents are urged to seek shelter with a friend or family in a safe area. Individuals with special needs may wish to consider earlier evacuation. Senior citizens and residents with special needs should contact their local emergency officials as soon as possible if they require assistance. 

Storm Update- 10 AM


(SALEM, NJ)—Salem County remains in a State of Emergency, with no protective actions required of the public and no travel restrictions at this time. Salem County officials met with local officials on Friday evening to discuss the hurricane’s current track, what steps have been taken, and how the County will coordinate the response with local officials during the emergency.

The Office of Emergency Management utilized the Reverse 911 system on Thursday evening to advise residents in low-lying or flood prone areas to voluntarily evacuate by early afternoon Saturday. Residents are urged to seek shelter with a friend or family in a safe area. Individuals with special needs may wish to consider earlier evacuation. Senior citizens and residents with special needs should contact their local emergency officials as soon as possible if they require assistance.

Salem County has opened mass care shelters this weekend. Utilizing the Red Cross/CERT teams, Salem Community College Shelter was opened on Friday evening, while Schalick High School Shelter will be opened by noon on Saturday. Cots and blankets have been delivered to the locations. As details are finalized for locations, the County will provide it again through this reverse 911 system and local media and emergency organizations. Non- emergency phone calls should be avoided so phone lines are available for emergencies.

The County Emergency Operations Center will open at 6 PM on Saturday. County officials will be actively monitoring the hurricane’s effect on Salem County and responding appropriately.

The County will be utilizing various sources to communicate to residents during the hurricane. The sources include the reverse 911 system, twitter (http://twitter.com/#!/SalemCountyNJ), and a new blog on the County website (http://salemcountynj.blogspot.com/). These resources will be updated regularly throughout the weekend. The public is urged to follow them, in addition to following other resources. Since the new blog was launched on Friday morning there have been over 1000 views.

Residents should contact their local emergency management officials during the Hurricane if it is a non-emergency. Emergency calls should be made to 911. Residents should be advised that emergency responders and public works crews will only be dispatched during the hurricane if conditions are safe enough for travel. We are expecting wide-spread problems throughout the County, especially during periods of high tide. Residents should expect downed power lines, problems with trees, and flooding. Caution should be used at all times. Residents are urged to avoid travel during the Hurricane unless there is an imminent threat.

Friday, August 26, 2011

NJ Transit

NJ transit services in Salem County will be suspended on Saturday. Residents are urged to stay off the roadways unless there is an imminent threat.

Hurricane Irene: Staying Prepared

Hurricane Irene: Staying Prepared
With Hurricane Irene forecasted to hit the New Jersey coast sometime this weekend, it’s important to ensure that you, your family and your community are prepared.

There are some simple steps that everyone can take to protect the health and safety of you and your family.

Have an Emergency Kit:
Every family should have an emergency kit created that will help them survive in their house or at a shelter for several days to a week.  This emergency kit should contain items essential for survival, including fresh water, food, blankets, radio, flashlight and batteries.

To prepare and maintain an emergency kit, print the DHSS Emergency Supply Checklist. At www.nj.gov/health/er   For additional information on preparing for a hurricane, visit http://www.ready.gov/america/_downloads/trifold_brochure.pdf

Make an Emergency Plan:
Make plans with your family and friends in case you're not together during an emergency. Discuss how you'll contact each other, where you'll meet, and what you'll do in different situations.
It’s important to review contact lists that include updated cell phone and home telephone numbers.

Stay Informed:
Being prepared means staying informed. Check all types of media – Web sites, newspapers, radio, TV– for global, national and local information. It’s important to have not only updated information but reliable information.
During an emergency, your local Emergency Management or Emergency Services Office will give you information on such things as open shelters and evacuation orders.
The New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services website serves as a resource for all health-related information in New Jersey and will provide updates during incidents. Make sure to bookmark www.nj.gov/health on your personal computers.
For more information, visit:
DHSS Emergency Preparedness - http://www.state.nj.us/health/er/index.shtml
New Jersey Office of Emergency Management - http://www.state.nj.us/njoem/
Federal Emergency Management Agency - http://www.fema.gov/index.shtm

COUNTY BRACES FOR HURRICANE IRENE

COUNTY BRACES FOR HURRICANE IRENE

(SALEM, NJ)—On Friday afternoon County officials met to once again prepare a comprehensive coordinated response to Hurricane Irene’s effects in Salem County. County Emergency Management Coordinator Jeffrey Pompper, in consultation with County Freeholders and Administration, signed a State of Emergency declaration as of approximately 3:00 PM on Friday. At this time no protective actions are required of the public. All County officials have been placed on an on-call status and Emergency Management and Public Works Officials are preparing for the next 36 to 48 hours.

“Salem County is taking this hurricane’s threat very seriously,” said Freeholder Director Ware. “This hurricane has the potential to cause a great deal of devastation in our community and our goal is first and foremost to protect lives and then protect property. It is important that during this emergency, we, as a County community, look out for the needs of neighbors and loved ones. Salem County has always come together during times of emergencies and we know that the difficulties faced by this storm will be no match to our County’s ability to overcome. We are urging every resident to listen to the advice and directives of emergency management officials. This is a serious situation and we must respond accordingly.”

The Office of Emergency Management utilized the Reverse 911 system on Thursday evening to advise residents in low-lying or flood prone areas to voluntarily evacuate by early afternoon Saturday. Residents are urged to seek shelter with a friend or family in a safe area. Individuals with special needs may wish to consider earlier evacuation.

Salem County is opening mass care shelters this weekend. Utilizing the Red Cross/CERT teams, Salem Community College Shelter will open at approximately 5 PM on Friday evening, while Schalick High School Shelter will open sometime on Saturday morning. Cots and blankets are being delivered to the locations. As details are finalized for locations, the County will provide it again through this reverse 911 system and local media and emergency organizations. Non- emergency phone calls should be avoided so phone lines are available for emergencies.

“In addition to preparing for the shelters, our CERT team has been busy preparing sandbags for the coming storm and the flooding that is expected,” said Deputy Director David Lindenmuth, Chair of the County Public Safety Committee. “Our emergency management and volunteer force in this County has always served the community well and we know that they will rise to meet this challenge. We ask our residents to be mindful of our first responders, heed their advice, and only call 911 for emergencies. All other inquiries should be made to local emergency management officials.”

The County Emergency Operations Center will open at 6 PM on Saturday. County officials will be actively monitoring the hurricane’s effect on Salem County and responding appropriately.

“We believe that this will be a significant challenge for local, county, and state officials,” said Freeholder Bobbitt, Chair of the County Public Works Department. “Our public works and engineering departments will be working with their local and county counterparts to address all the problems that we expect to face. Residents should expect downed power lines, problems with trees, and flooding. Caution should be used at all times. Our crews will be attempting to address problems as they arise, but please be patient as we are sure that this hurricane will once again test our resources. Our public works crews have done well in the past and they will do it again.”

The Public Works and Engineering Departments have spent Thursday and Friday ensuring that drains are clear from debris, opening flood gates in waterways, and preparing for the barrage of problems this hurricane may bring to bear to Salem County.

The County will be utilizing various sources to communicate to residents during the hurricane. The sources include the reverse 911 system, twitter (http://twitter.com/#!/SalemCountyNJ), and a new blog on the County website (http://salemcountynj.blogspot.com/). These resources will be updated regularly throughout the weekend. The public is urged to follow them, in addition to following other resources.

Below are some tips and resources for residents on staying informed during the Hurricane:

On the Web - Use credible websites to get information about natural hazards and emergency preparedness.  The NJOEM works closely with the National Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center regarding storm predictions and forecasts.

National Weather Service -    http://www.erh.noaa.gov/er/phi/
National Hurricane Center - http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
New Jersey Office of Emergency Management - www.ready.nj.gov
Office of the NJ State Climatologist, Rutgers - http://climate.rutgers.edu/stateclim/
American Red Cross - http://www.redcross.org/
Federal Emergency Management Agency http://www.ready.gov/

Social Media - Social media and other advanced communications technologies are used by frequently by emergency managers statewide.


NJ Alert - NJ Alert is a free, voluntary and confidential emergency alerting system that allows NJ Office of Emergency Management officials to send E-mail or text messages to cell phones and other email enabled devices during an emergency event.  Sign up for NJ Alert by logging on to: www.njalert.gov.

NOAA Weather Radio - is a nationwide network of radio stations broadcasting continuous weather information directly from the nearest National Weather Service Office.  NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts official Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  NOAA Weather Radios are typically inexpensive, easily available in stores and can often be programmed for your specific area.

Traditional Media - Continue to monitor traditional media sources TV, newspapers and radio to stay informed of breaking news and continued coverage of emergency events.

Connect with information sources and stay in-the-know.  Learning about hazards in your area, knowing about emergency plans that have been established, and staying informed are the first steps toward being a disaster survivor, instead of a disaster victim.

The County suggests the following readiness steps in preparation for Hurricane Irene:
  • Get a Kit” of emergency supplies – the items that will help you stay self-sufficient for up to three days (72 hours), if needed.
    • Three days' supply of canned, non-perishable, ready-to-eat FOOD
    • Three days' supply of WATER (a total of three gallons per family member)
    • Battery-operated RADIO and extra batteries
    • FLASHLIGHT and extra batteries
    • One week's prescription MEDICATIONS
    • FIRST AID KIT
    • Personal TOILETRIES
    • Non-electric CAN OPENER and UTENSILS
    • SPECIAL NEEDS items:
      • INFANT care items
      • Items for ELDERLY family members
      • Items for relatives with DISABILITIES
    • CASH or TRAVELERS CHECKS
    • Store important DOCUMENTS in a waterproof, safe location 
  • Make a Plan” for what you and your family will do during an emergency – this includes knowing how to evacuate and how to Shelter-in-Place.
    • If you are elderly or have special needs, contact the Salem County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) at 856-769-2900. They can make special arrangements for your transportation and check on you regularly if you are at home during an emergency. You should always make plans for your transportation if you and your family need to evacuate. If you do not have transportation, have a plan to carpool with a neighbor or contact OEM. Also, make plans for your pets and consider them in your emergency kit.  
  • Stay Informed” of possible threats.  Tune into your local media outlets for the latest breaking weather news.  In the event of an emergency a battery powered radio is a great tool.
For more information on how to properly prepare your household or business, please visit: www.ready.nj.gov/plan/hurricane-before.html or call 211.  If you have more questions about Salem County emergency plans, call the OEM at 856-769-2900.
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Governor Chris Christie Announces Additional Actions taken to Prepare for Hurricane Irene

Governor Chris Christie Announces Additional Actions taken to Prepare for Hurricane Irene
State Authorizes Counterflow Measures on Route 72, Closing Lanes to Eastbound Traffic; Closure of some MVC Offices Beginning at 4:00 p.m.

For Immediate Release                                                                Contact: Michael Drewniak
Friday, August 26, 2011                                                                                 Kevin Roberts
                                                                                                                      609-777-2600

West Trenton, NJ – Governor Chris Christie this morning announced additional measures being taken to prepare for Hurricane Irene and aid New Jerseyans in shore evacuations. Beginning at 6:00 p.m. this evening, contraflow will be in effect on Route 72, running for 28 miles to Route 70, closing all lanes to eastbound travel and utilizing all lanes of traffic for use in moving traffic westward. The measure is the latest action to aid residents in evacuating Long Beach Island in Ocean County. 

In addition, Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) offices in Atlantic, Cumberland, Monmouth, Ocean and Salem counties will close beginning at 4:00 p.m. today until further notice. To aid New Jerseyans whose licenses will expire at the end of the month, the MVC will also provide an extension until September 10th for renewals on expired drivers licenses, identification cards, vehicle registrations and inspections effective September 1. Authorization was previously provided for MVC office closures in Cape May county.

Governor Christie has called on people to leave voluntarily and, in order to support coastal evacuations, has authorized several measures that will make evacuation easier.

Yesterday, the Governor ordered a temporary suspension of tolls on all parts of the Garden State Parkway south of the Raritan River and the Atlantic City Expressway beginning at 8:00 a.m. this morning. Governor Christie also announced that Routes 47 and 347 in Cape May County will be closed to eastbound traffic and that the use of all lanes of traffic will move westward beginning Friday evening at 6:00 pm. As part of this process, all ramps will be tightly controlled and additional personnel will be used to ensure safety.

The announcement reiterates the Governor’s strong call from yesterday, urging all residents and visitors to the New Jersey barrier islands and shore areas to leave for safer locations. Following a briefing at the Regional Operations Intelligence Center, Governor Christie signed a Declaration of a State of Emergency for New Jersey and called on people already at the shore to begin to leave immediately and advised anyone who has shore rentals or was planning to go to the shore this weekend not to go. It is important residents and visitors heed the advice and direction being given by the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management (OEM). In order to conduct an orderly evacuation of the coastline and barrier islands, residents and visitors should begin evacuating today if they have not already done so.

The state OEM is continuing to coordinate with every county as they mobilize preparations at the county and local level. Any request for assistance must come through from the local to the county up through the state OEM in order to ensure there is a real-time, coordinate response.

For further information about safety precautions, evacuation routes and best practices please go to ready.nj.gov.



# # #

LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR CONTACT INFORMATION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  August 26, 2011

CONTACT LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COORDINATORS
FOR NON-LIFE THREATENING SITUATIONS

(SALEM, NJ)-- The Office of Public Information and the Office of Emergency Management has announced that in order to maintain the safety of our residents during the storm residents should call their local Emergency Management Coordinators for non-emergency situations.

“It is important that residents know who their local coordinators are,” said Freeholder Director Lee Ware.  “Reserving 911 for life-threatening situations will assure that help arrives as quickly as possible.”

Non-Emergency Contacts and Phone Numbers
Alloway                      Ed Dorrell                                           935- 5650 or 935-7716
                                   
Carneys Point              Police Dept.                                        299-0055
Elmer                           Matthew Richards                              207-1973
Elsinboro                     George Parris/Municipal Bldg.           935-2200
                                    LAC Police                                         935-7301
                                    Rob Klein                                            935-3505
LAC                            LAC Police                                         935-7301
Mannington                 William Fox                                        935-0437
Oldmans                      Jeff Newman                                      299-3255
                                    Michael Moore                                    299-1786
Penns Grove                Police Department                              299-0055
Pennsville                    Patrick McCaffery                             678-3089 X159
Pilesgrove                    Joseph Gebely                                     769-3222
Pittsgrove                    Robert Zuest                                       207-5407
                                    Steve Wymbs                                      305-9812
                                    Linda DuBois                                     981-6101
Quinton                       Ed Counsellor                                     935-3300
Salem                          John Pelura                                          935-2088
                                    Robert Davis                                       637-7387
Upper Pittsgrove         John Heritage Sr.                                297-3274
Woodstown                Police Dept.                                        769-1330                                


“We’re counting on everyone’s cooperation in order to keep all our citizens safe,” said Freeholder Ware.

Non-emergency phone calls should be avoided so phones lines are available for emergencies.

--30--

Shelter Information from the Red Cross

You can view live shelter availability information at http://app.redcross.org/nss-app/.  It is also available as an app for the iphone/ipad/ipod here:  http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/american-red-cross-shelter/id419258261?mt=8  
I would also ask that you encourage people to register for Safe & Well here:  https://safeandwell.communityos.org/cms/index.php.  It’s important that those affected by the storm stay in contact with loved ones and the Red Cross Safe and Well website can help them do that. Safe and Well is a secure, easy-to-use online tool to help families connect in an emergency. People can register by visiting the Red Cross web site or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.
A mobile-friendly version of the Hurricane Safety Checklist is now available for smart phone users to download at www.redcross.org/mobile.

Governor Chris Christie Reinforces Call to Residents and Visitors to Evacuate the Jersey Shore

Governor Chris Christie Reinforces Call to Residents and Visitors to Evacuate the Jersey Shore

State Authorizes Several Measures to Help Assist with Evacuation

For Immediate Release Contact: Michael Drewniak
Thursday, August 25, 2011 Kevin Roberts
609-777-2600

West Trenton, NJ –
Governor Chris Christie once again reinforced his strong call from earlier today, urging all residents and visitors to the New Jersey barrier islands and shore areas to leave for safer locations. Following a briefing at the Regional Operations Intelligence Center, Governor Christie signed a Declaration of a State of Emergency for New Jersey and called on people already at the shore to begin to leave immediately and advised anyone who has shore rentals or was planning to go to the shore this weekend not to go. It is important residents and visitors heed the advice and direction being given by the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management (OEM). In order to conduct an orderly evacuation of the coastline and barrier islands, residents and visitors should begin evacuating tomorrow if they have not already done so.

The Governor is calling on people to leave voluntarily and in order to support these coast evacuations is authorizing several measures that will make evacuation easier. The Governor is temporarily suspending tolls on all parts of the Garden State Parkway south of the Raritan River and the Atlantic City Expressway beginning at 8:00 a.m. Friday morning. Furthermore, Routes 47 and 347 in Cape May County will be closed to eastbound traffic and will use all lanes to move traffic westward beginning Friday evening at 6
:00 pm. As part of this process, all ramps will be tightly controlled and additional personnel will be used to ensure safety.

Additionally, the state OEM is coordinating with every county as they mobilize preparations at the county and local level. Any request for assistance must come through from the local to the county up through the state OEM in order to ensure there is a real-time, coordinate response.


For further information about safety precautions, evacuation routes and best practices please go to ready.nj.gov.



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Information from the Red Cross Regarding Pre and Post Storm Preparedness




Voluntary Evacuations Urged

This is an urgent message from the Salem County Office of Emergency Management. 

In light of the pending hurricane, emergency management officials are advising residents in low-lying or flood prone areas to voluntarily evacuate by early afternoon Saturday.  We suggest you seek shelter with a friend or family in a safe area.  Individuals with special needs may wish to consider earlier evacuation.

Salem County will open mass care shelters on Saturday evening.  As details are finalized for locations we will provide it again through this reverse 911 system and local media and emergency organizations.

Please do not call 911 for non-emergency assistance.  You may reach out to your local town officials for specific town information.

If you have not done so previously please visit www.ready.gov (spelled out and repeated) for information on preparing for an emergency including hurricanes.
Thank You.

COUNTY ON ALERT FOR HURRICANE IRENE

COUNTY ON ALERT FOR HURRICANE IRENE

(SALEM, NJ)—County officials met this morning to review preparations for Hurricane Irene’s arrival during the weekend. Weather forecasters are predicting that likely paths of the storm involve Salem County and county government is preparing for the worst-case scenario.

“Salem County’s resources have been tested this past year through snow, rain, flooding, and now a potential hurricane,” said Freeholder Bruce Bobbitt, Chair of the County Public Works Committee. “However, whatever Mother Nature decides to throw at us our crews are prepared to do what is necessary to ensure public safety. The public works and engineering departments are already preparing for the Hurricane by ensuring that drainage areas are free from debris, inspecting our waterways, and coordinating with their counterparts in other counties. We will be ready for a coordinated and effective response to Irene.”

Emergency Management officials are coordinating with State and local entities, while keeping a watch on Hurricane Irene’s path.

“Emergency management is not just a county responsibility,” said Deputy Director David Lindenmuth, Chair of the County Public Safety Committee. “In order to ensure that public safety responses are effective it requires the cooperation of officials in all areas of government, along with our residents. Safety begins on the home front. Local emergency management officials will be receiving regular communication from the County Office of Emergency Management. We are reminding residents that they should only call 911 for emergencies.”

Each community emergency management office will decide what their preparations will be for the weekend.  The SC Emergency Management Office will be partially staffed during Sunday with remaining staff on stand-by should they be needed.  Members of the Salem County Road Department will be on hand to address flooding or debris removal concerns.

Should residents require non-emergency assistance during the storm they are to contact their local emergency management coordinator or police department.  If it is an emergency they are to call 911 and report their emergency.

Below are some tips and resources for residents on staying informed during the Hurricane:

On the Web - Use credible websites to get information about natural hazards and emergency preparedness.  The NJOEM works closely with the National Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center regarding storm predictions and forecasts.

National Weather Service -    http://www.erh.noaa.gov/er/phi/
National Hurricane Center - http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ New Jersey Office of Emergency Management - http://www.ready.nj.gov/ Office of the NJ State Climatologist, Rutgers - http://climate.rutgers.edu/stateclim/
American Red Cross - http://www.redcross.org/ Federal Emergency Management Agency http://www.ready.gov/

Social Media - Social media and other advanced communications technologies are used by frequently by emergency managers statewide. Like the NJOEM on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter.


NJ Alert - NJ Alert is a free, voluntary and confidential emergency alerting system that allows NJ Office of Emergency Management officials to send E-mail or text messages to cell phones and other email enabled devices during an emergency event.  Sign up for NJ Alert by logging on to: http://www.njalert.gov/.

NOAA Weather Radio - is a nationwide network of radio stations broadcasting continuous weather information directly from the nearest National Weather Service Office.  NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts official Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  NOAA Weather Radios are typically inexpensive, easily available in stores and can often be programmed for your specific area.

Traditional Media - Continue to monitor traditional media sources TV, newspapers and radio to stay informed of breaking news and continued coverage of emergency events.

Connect with information sources and stay in-the-know.  Learning about hazards in your area, knowing about emergency plans that have been established, and staying informed are the first steps toward being a disaster survivor, instead of a disaster victim. 

“We are also reminding our residents that they should take time to plan now to save them from trouble later on,” said Freeholder Director Lee Ware. “By taking some time to plan for the worst case scenario with family and friends, you may be able to save lives and property.”

The County suggests the following readiness steps in preparation for Hurricane Irene:
  • Get a Kit” of emergency supplies – the items that will help you stay self-sufficient for up to three days (72 hours), if needed.
    • Three days' supply of canned, non-perishable, ready-to-eat FOOD
    • Three days' supply of WATER (a total of three gallons per family member)
    • Battery-operated RADIO and extra batteries
    • FLASHLIGHT and extra batteries
    • One week's prescription MEDICATIONS
    • FIRST AID KIT
    • Personal TOILETRIES
    • Non-electric CAN OPENER and UTENSILS
    • SPECIAL NEEDS items:
      • INFANT care items
      • Items for ELDERLY family members
      • Items for relatives with DISABILITIES
    • CASH or TRAVELERS CHECKS
    • Store important DOCUMENTS in a waterproof, safe location 
  • Make a Plan” for what you and your family will do during an emergency – this includes knowing how to evacuate and how to Shelter-in-Place.
    • If you are elderly or have special needs, contact the Salem County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) at 856-769-2900. They can make special arrangements for your transportation and check on you regularly if you are at home during an emergency. You should always make plans for your transportation if you and your family need to evacuate. If you do not have transportation, have a plan to carpool with a neighbor or contact OEM. Also, make plans for your pets and consider them in your emergency kit.  
  • Stay Informed” of possible threats.  Tune into your local media outlets for the latest breaking weather news.  In the event of an emergency a battery powered radio is a great tool.
“In the event of a County-wide emergency, residents may receive a reverse 911 call,” said Deputy Director Lindenmuth. “It is important that residents take serious these calls and any subsequent warnings. We are urging residents to use caution when heading out during the weekend. If Hurricane Irene does hit us in Salem County, please do not leave your house and use caution if you must do so.”
For more information on how to properly prepare your household or business, please visit: www.ready.nj.gov/plan/hurricane-before.html or call 211.  If you have more questions about Salem County emergency plans, call the OEM at 856-769-2900.
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